Culturally Affirming & Multicultural Therapy in Kitchener-Waterloo

You Don’t Have to Translate Your Experience Here.

Bring your whole self to the room. I offer a safe and anti-oppressive space where your culture, faith, and family dynamics are understood rather than questioned.

You are tired of being the "bridge" between two worlds.

Navigating life as a child of immigrants, a newcomer, or a racialized person often means balancing two or more different worlds.

You might carry the weight of being the "model" achiever during the day, while holding your family’s unspoken hopes and expectations by night. It can require constantly shifting your voice, your personality, and your values depending on who is in the room.

It is a heavy load to feel "too Western" for your family, yet "too different" for your peers.

At Intentional Living Psychotherapy, you can finally set that weight down.

Here, you enter a sanctuary where your cultural context is viewed as a vital, beautiful part of your story. You are free to share your experiences without the need to "translate" your reality.

We start from a place of understanding. I deeply respect that decisions like setting boundaries or choosing to live independently are rarely simple; they are woven with love, duty, and community. You won't have to explain why it is hard, we can focus on how it feels for you.

I offer a foundational understanding of these dynamics not to make assumptions, but to meet you with better questions and deeper curiosity. We move beyond the general to explore your unique, individual world.

Five women lying on a bed in a circle, smiling and enjoying each other's company.

What We Can Explore Together

Therapy That Honours Your Context
I don’t view your culture as a barrier to your growth. I view it as an essential part of your story. Here are common themes we can navigate in culturally affirming therapy:

The Weight of Representation

You may feel the pressure to succeed to make your parents' sacrifices "worth it." We explore how this pressure impacts your anxiety and self-worth.
Intergenerational Trauma

We look at how the silence, survival modes, or pain of previous generations affects your nervous system today. We work to heal these wounds without rejecting your lineage.
Navigating Individualism vs. Collectivism

It is difficult to choose your own happiness when you were raised to prioritize the family unit. We process the guilt that comes with setting boundaries or making choices that differ from your family's expectations.
Racial Trauma & Microaggressions

Existing in spaces where you are othered takes a toll on the body. We process the invisible impact of systemic racism and the exhaustion of having your reality denied.
Faith & Spirituality

Whether you are finding comfort in your faith or deconstructing it, we hold space for your spiritual journey. We can discuss how your spiritual beliefs intersect with your mental health in a way that feels safe for you.

A Culturally Affirming Space to Grow

In our work together, we’ll look at the full picture of your life. I recognize that your mental health is not just about your internal thoughts. It is also shaped by the world around you, including your family systems, your community, and society at large.

I work to ensure that therapy is a place where you never have to defend your reality.

Many traditional therapy models view "independence" as the ultimate goal of health. I challenge that idea. If your wellness is rooted in community and family connection, I honour that. You define what healing looks like based on your values, not a textbook definition.
Discrimination and racism are forms of trauma that impact your body and your nervous system. I treat these experiences with the care and validation they deserve.
It is easy to focus only on the pain of the past. In our work together, we also make space to look for the resilience, wisdom, and beauty in your ancestry. We use these strengths to help you navigate your life today.

Therapy That Fits Your Life

I know that reaching out is the hardest step. I strive to make the process as warm and accessible as possible.

In-Person in Kitchener-Waterloo:

For those who crave a physical safe space, my office is located at 900 Guelph Street. It’s a quiet, welcoming environment where you can leave the world at the door.
Online Therapy Across Ontario:

If you have a busy schedule or feel safer in your own home, I offer secure video sessions. This is a great option for clients in Toronto, Brampton, or surrounding areas.
Culturally Inclusive:

You shouldn't have to explain your culture to your therapist. I hold space for the nuances of your identity, faith, and family dynamics, ensuring you feel seen in your wholeness.

Meet Ruba

Therapy with Someone Who Understands

I know that reaching out for support takes immense courage. This is especially true when you have spent a lifetime protecting the privacy of your family or community.

As a therapist who navigates these intersections myself, I understand the relief of finding a space where you do not have to explain the basics of your identity. My practice is a safe space where you can bring your questions, your joy, and your complexity without fear of judgment.

1.Moving Past Definitions

We can skip the general explanations of cultural pressure or family duty because I already understand the context. This allows us to go deeper into your personal reality. I want to hear how these dynamics impact you specifically. My goal is to understand your unique story with fresh eyes and genuine interest, free from assumptions.

2. No "Cultural Script" to Follow

Sometimes clients worry that a therapist who understands their culture will expect them to follow its rules. I do not operate that way. I know the cultural "script" you were raised with, but I have no expectation that you follow it. I am here to help you figure out what feels true for you, whether that aligns with your upbringing or steps away from it.

3. All of You is Welcome

It is common to feel like you have to fragment yourself, showing your "professional" side at work, your "dutiful" side at home, and hiding the rest. Here, you can unhide. Whether you are navigating a difficult relationship or processing workplace microaggressions, every messy and beautiful part of your identity is safe here.

Young woman with long dark hair and bangs smiling outdoors with green foliage in the background.

How Therapy Works

1. Understanding Your Story

In our first session, I’ll learn about your experiences, challenges, and goals at a pace that feels comfortable.
2. Creating a Personalized Plan

Together, we’ll build a personalized plan with strategies to help you heal, grow, and navigate life’s challenges
3. Doing the Work

Through reflection and new skills, you’ll gain insight, break patterns, and make meaningful changes in your life.
4. Tracking Progress

We’ll adjust as needed, celebrate growth, and ensure therapy continues to meet your evolving needs.
5. Moving Forward

When you’re ready, we’ll explore what’s next, whether that’s reducing sessions, setting new goals, or confidently moving on.

You don't have to leave any part of yourself at the door.

Whether you are looking to heal from the past or navigate your life today, I am here to support you with understanding and respect. Your whole story is welcome here.

Book a free 30 minute video consultation